Longmont police commander subject of internal investigation

Officials say matter is not criminal, but is first of its kind

LONGMONT -- A Longmont police commander is on paid administrative leave pending an internal investigation, but officials declined to comment on the nature of the investigation Thursday.

Cmdr. Tim Lewis, who leads the department's detective unit and formerly served as the department's spokesman, will remain on paid leave until the outcome of the internal investigation "based on an internal personnel issue," according to Longmont police Cmdr. Jeff Satur.

"Please be advised that this type of leave does not constitute discipline," Satur said in a prepared statement about the case. "In addition, I can tell you that this is not criminal in nature, and that no criminal investigation regarding this matter is being conducted."

Deputy Chief of Police Craig Earhart said on Thursday that the investigation of Lewis is the first time a commander has been subject to an internal investigation. The rank was developed in 1995 when the department restructured and did away with the lieutenant and captain ranks. The police department of 137 sworn officers has four commanders. As detective commander, Lewis oversees 25 sworn officers and 10 civilian employees.

Cmdr. Tim Perkins is leading the investigation instead of the sergeant who typically oversees internal investigations because of Lewis' rank, Earhart said. He was placed on leave on Wednesday.

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